According to Baran (2012) mass communication can be defined as “the process of creating shared meaning between the mass media and their audiences.” This essay aims to discuss the degree to which we are shaped by our interaction with the media. In order to achieve the aforementioned aim of this essay I will focus on the following: limited-effects theory, two-step flow theory, attitude change theory and agenda setting. The limited effects theory sets out that media influence is based on individual and social characteristics. An example of this is Lazarfelds two-step flow theory. Baran (2012) states that “behaviour was limited by opinion leaders – people who initially consumed media content on topics of particular interest to them, interpreted it in light of their own values and beliefs, and then passed it on to opinion followed, people like them who had less frequent contact with media.” This theory can only go so far as in this day in age there are so many different mediums used to convey media information. With television, radio, newspapers, magazines, film and social media/internet they have the ability to influence the way we act dress and communicate with others. Our perception of what’s right and what’s wrong can be influenced by the type of television show we watch. An example of how powerful the media can be on peoples lives is German propaganda. Through creative film makers and enthusiastic radio personalities they were able to persuade the German men to enlist in